Over the past 2 decades, San Diego has evolved past its old reputation as a slow-growth, conservative Navy town graced with 70 miles of fabulous sandy coastline. Of course, the military link is still present today, with a handful of large bases throughout the county. But the city -- California's first and the nation's eighth largest -- now hosts a diversity of neighborhoods and residents to rival Los Angeles. San Diego reflects its Spanish-Mexican heritage in every corner; you won't forget that bustling Tijuana is just across the border, less than 30 minutes away. San Diego also boasts one of the nation's priciest housing markets and a biotech/tourism/telecom economy that's firing on all cylinders. A full-fledged building boom is transforming formerly seedy downtown neighborhoods and architecturally rich suburbs into upscale wonders. And the stylish young residents and shop owners they attract are, in turn, updating and enriching San Diego's dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
Amid all the change, San Diego is still first and foremost a big outdoor playground. You can swim, snorkel, windsurf, kayak, bicycle, in-line skate, and partake of other diversions in or near the water, as well as in the mountains and desert. Top-notch civic attractions include three world-famous animal parks and Balboa Park, one of the finest urban parks in the world. Just pack a laid-back attitude along with your sandals and swimsuit, and prepare for a warm welcome to California's grown-up beach town.
